When it comes to finding a substitute for Mexican lager yeast, there are a few options to consider. While the Wyeast Bohemian lager yeast and Wyeast Bavarian lager yeast are commonly used for brewing Mexican lagers, there are other yeast strains that can produce similar results.
One alternative yeast strain that can be used is the White Labs Mexican Lager yeast (WLP940). This yeast is specifically designed for brewing Mexican-style lagers and can provide similar characteristics to the Wyeast options. It produces a clean and crisp lager with a subtle maltiness and a touch of sweetness. I have personally used this yeast in my own Mexican lager recipe and have been pleased with the results.
Another option is the Fermentis Saflager W-34/70 yeast. This is a widely available dry yeast that is commonly used for brewing lagers. It is known for its clean fermentation profile and ability to produce a crisp and refreshing lager. While it may not provide the exact same flavor profile as the Wyeast strains, it can still yield a delicious Mexican-style lager.
If you are looking for a more unique flavor profile, you may consider using a different lager yeast strain altogether, such as the White Labs German Lager yeast (WLP830). This yeast is known for producing clean and well-balanced lagers with a slightly malty character. While it may not be specifically designed for Mexican lagers, it can still work well in this style and provide a distinct flavor profile.
In addition to yeast strains, it's also worth considering the fermentation temperature and other brewing techniques to achieve the desired flavors in your Mexican lager. Mexican lagers typically benefit from a cool fermentation temperature, around 50-55°F (10-13°C), to maintain the crispness and clean flavors. It's also important to use quality ingredients, such as Mexican or continental Pilsner malt, and to pay attention to the water chemistry to achieve the desired balance.
While the Wyeast Bohemian lager yeast and Wyeast Bavarian lager yeast are commonly used for brewing Mexican lagers, there are several alternative yeast strains that can be used to achieve similar results. Whether it's the White Labs Mexican Lager yeast, Fermentis Saflager W-34/70 yeast, or even a different lager yeast strain, experimenting with different options can lead to delicious and unique Mexican-style lagers.